GARY LOCKE has admitted that it will be “embarrassing” to be leading Hearts out in the League Cup Final at Hampden tomorrow afternoon instead of John McGlynn.

John McGlynn will not have the honour of leading his team out against St Mirren

It’s a pity John couldn’t be in charge because he was very much the reason that we’re at Hampden.

Gary Locke

And the Jam Tarts’ interim boss insists his players are determined to win the trophy as a thank you to axed boss McGlynn.

McGlynn, top right, guided Hearts to Hampden but was sacked last month following four consecutive SPL defeats for the Gorgie side, although he will be at the showdown.

While Locke is proud to be in charge of the Tynecastle outfit for the final with St Mirren, he admitted McGlynn will be in his thoughts.

He said: “I haven’t bounced ideas off John, but I’ve spoken to him. I’m delighted he’s going to be at the game. All the credit goes to John and it’s a bit embarrassing for me to be here when he’s got us to the cup final. But that’s football.

“I’ve been put in charge for this game and hopefully we’ll do well.

“He’s reassured me that I should go out and enjoy it. That’s the mark of the man.

“He’s a fantastic individual and when he left he said to me to try and make the most of it. That’s what we’ve tried to do.

“We’re looking forward to the game.

“It’s a pity John couldn’t be in charge because he was very much the reason that we’re at Hampden.

“Everything has been through him and if we can get the right result on Sunday he’s obviously played a massive part.

“John’s going to be at the game anyway. He should be because he’s played a huge part in getting the club to the final, and hopefully we can get the right result.

“It’s all about him as far as I’m concerned.”

Locke will also be living out a childhood fantasy tomorrow when he leads his team out at Hampden.

He added: “It’s something I’ve dreamed about as a kid.

“To play for Hearts was a dream come true for me.

“But to lead the team out in a national cup final – while obviously I’d like it to be under different circumstances – will be a proud day for myself and my family.